Friday, October 26, 2007

California Fire News

California Fire News

Link to California Fire News - Structure, Wildland, EMS

Inciweb: Ranch Wildland Fire - 56,235 acres 81%

Posted: 25 Oct 2007 10:37 PM CDT

Ranch Fire Wildland Fire

INCIDENT UPDATED 36 MIN. AGO
ANNOUNCEMENT

Emergency Closure of Los Padres National Forest - October 23, 2007
6755 Hollister Ave. #150 - Goleta, CA 93117 - CONTACT: Joe Pasinato (805) 961-5745 - www.fs.fed.us/r5/lospadres - GOLETA, Calif.- In conjunction with the Cleveland, San Bernardino, and Angeles... more

Lake Piru in the Ranch Fire burn area on October 24, 2007
Credit: Alexis West

view pictures || view maps

Summary

The Santa Ana winds have stopped and given way to more seasonal winds. A few smokes are visible from the fire but no major active fire behavior was observed today. The less intense fire behavior has allowed crews to aggressively pursue mopping-up hot spots and continue to improve and build containment lines. Structure protection resources are still in place along the perimeter of the fire near communities and structures. The improvement in the fire conditions has allowed the re-assignment of crews to other fires in need of resources. Resources are being sent to the Santiago, Poomach, Witch, Harris, Rice, and Ammo fires.

The three twenty-person hotshot crews that were inserted into the western area of the fire near Little Sespe Creek continued to construct fire line intended to halt the western spread of the fire. An additional crew was also rappelled into the area. Helicopters continued to drop water and retardant to cool any hot spots near the area of line construction from water and retardant bases located near the town of Fillmore and Lake Piru. Crews on the eastern fire perimeter began rehabilitation of recently constructed dozer lines. Structure protection continued around the communities of Fillmore, Blue Point, Dominguez, Hollister, Piru Canyons and Sespe area north of Fillmore city limits.

As a result of extreme fire activity, the Angeles and Los Padres National Forests have implemented forest wide closures. Please call the Los Padres National Forest 805-961-5770 or the Angeles National Forest 626-821-6700 for additional information.

All evacuations from the Ranch Fire within Los Angeles and Ventura Counties have been lifted. Residents are now allowed back into their neighborhoods but are urged to remain cautious and should keep informed about current conditions. The fire has not crossed highway 126 nor has it progressed any closer to the communities of Piru and Fillmore.

The Incident Command Post is located at Castaic Park. The fire is under the command of California Interagency Incident Management Team 3, Jeanne Pincha-Tulley commanding.

The Ranch Fire started October 20th at 9:42 pm near Townsend Peak, southwest of Templin Highway and Interstate 5, in the Angeles National Forest. The Ranch Fire has now involved 56,235 acres and is 81% contained. There are 492 people assigned to the fire along with 45 fire engines, 8 dozers, 12 water tenders, 9 twenty-person hand crews and 3 helicopters.

Over the last ten years, 2,324 fires have burned a total of 201,914 acres on the Angeles NF; some areas, mostly along roadsides, have burned multiple times in the past decade.

Fire Danger Levels (FDLs) on the Angeles NF are based on environmental conditions such as weather and fuel moisture in vegetation and on human factors such as availability of firefighting resources and national forest visitation (for example, busy holiday weekends increase the chances of a human-caused fire.)

Basic Information

Incident Type Wildland Fire
Cause Under Investigation
Date of Origin 10/20/2007 at 2142 hrs.
Location 6 miles north of Castaic CA
Incident Commander Jeanne Pincha - Tulley

Current Situation

Total Personnel 492
Size 56,235 acres
Percent Contained 81%
Estimated Containment Date 10/31/2007 at hrs.
Fuels Involved

The fire is burning in heavy chaparral and oak woodland.

Fire Behavior

Little activity observed overnight.

Significant Events

Mop up and patrol the existing firelines.

Outlook

Planned Actions

Fly crews in to a helispot on the west end of the fire to construct direct line in the Hopper Mountain, Oat Mountain and Little Sespe Creek areas. Mop up and patrol areas that have been contained.

Projected Movement

No fire movement anticipated.

Growth Potential

Due to the decreased wind speed, and rising relative humidity, the growth potential is considered to be low.

Terrain Difficulty

The difficulty of the terrain is extreme, owing to steep slopes and inaccessible terrain.

Remarks

The prospects for containment of the fire in the near term are very promising. Resources are being released for use on other fires in the region.

Weather

Current Wind Conditions Not available
Current Temperature Not available
Current Humidity Not available

Inciweb: Witch Wildland Fire - 197,990 acres - 30 percent

Posted: 25 Oct 2007 10:30 PM CDT

Witch Wildland Fire

INCIDENT UPDATED

Summary

This fire has burned 197,990 acres and is 30 percent contained. Mandatory evacuations are in place for the community of Julian and there is still a threat to Pine Hills, Cuyamaca, Wynola, Santa Ysabel, Alpine, and Harbison Canyon. Fire progression has slowed to the west, southwest, and northwest. Residents are being allowed to return to portions of Poway, Escondido, Rancho Santa Fe, San Diego and Rancho Bernardo. Wildcat Canyon is closed. Highway 67 is closed from Poway to Ramona.

1,061 homes, 30 commercial properties, and 175 outbuildings have been destroyed. 62 homes, 10 commercial properties and 50 outbuildings have been damaged. 1,000 residences, 100 commercial properties, and 300 outbuildings are still threatened.

2,883 firefighters are assigned to this incident under unified command. 22 firefighters have been injured on this fire. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $7 million. Witch Fire Information Line (619) 590-3160.

Cal Fire Web Site

Basic Information

Incident Type Wildland Fire
Cause Under Investigation
Date of Origin 10/21/2007 at 1235 hrs.
Location Witch Creek area, East of Ramona
Incident Commander Pat Kerschen

Current Situation

Total Personnel 2,883
Size 197,990 acres
Percent Contained 30%
Estimated Containment Date 10/31/2007 at hrs.
Fuels Involved

Timber (grass and understory)

Fuel model 2, 4, & 5. Oak woodlands and brush are also involved.

Fire Behavior

Continuing to see perimeter growth on the northeastern and eastern side of the fire. Fire is burning in mature heavy brush and four year old brush from the 2003 fire siege.

Significant Events

Progress on containment has been favorable in Branch II, IV, V (west side). Conditions have improved in these areas to allow return of residents into Poway, Escondido, Rancho Santa Fe, San Diego and Rancho Bernardo. SDG&E is beginning to re-establish utility service to some affected areas. President Bush, Governor Schwarzenegger and Senator Feinstein surveyed fire area and visited base camp this morning. Damage assessments report 239 destroyed vehicles.

Outlook

Planned Actions

Continue to protect life, property, and the environment. Securing perimeter is a high priority.

Projected Movement

Fire will continue to move east threatening the communities of Julian and Pine Hills. Fire has potential to move north and join the Poomacha Fire. Fire spread to west and southwest is still a potential.

Growth Potential

Medium

Terrain Difficulty

High

Containment Target

Containment efforts are showing positive results. Requested resources have arrived and changes in weather pattern will both help achieve management strategy.

Remarks

CAL FIRE Team #10 is in Unified Command of the incident. Base Camp is established at Kit Carson Park (Kit Carson & Bear Valley Parkway, Escondido). Changes in weather and on scene resources are making good progress with fire suppression efforts. ICT has reconciled outstanding orders killing most that were unfilled to assist the resource needs of the other major fires. Damage assessment is underway.

Weather

Current Wind Conditions 5-9 mph W
Current Temperature 87 degrees
Current Humidity 12 %

Inciweb: Harris Wildland Fire - 84,000 acres - 20 percent contained

Posted: 25 Oct 2007 10:06 PM CDT

Editor: I notice three things in this Incident Summary - This quote in regards to the containment target "Low confidence. Personnel are exhausted. Some additional resources are trickling in." and these Three facts (1) Growth Potential - High (2) Terrain Difficulty- High and this (3) Humidity -13 %...
Folks are getting really tired now... Hang In there - lots of fresh Nor Cal resources moving south last two days. You will get relief, Don't push it now - One foot in the black...Piss Clear... LCES... Stay Safe

Harris Wildland Fire

INCIDENT UPDATED 16 MIN. AGO

Summary

This fire has burned 84,000 acres and is 20 percent contained. The fire started October 21 and is burning at Harris Ranch Road and both sides of Highway 94 in Portrero in San Diego County. There have been 21 civilian and 12 firefighter injuries, as well as one death on this fire. 97 homes, 2 commercial properties and 17 outbuildings have been destroyed, and 250 additional structures are damaged. Damage assessments are still being conducted. 1,500 homes are still threatened.

Evacuation orders remain in effect. Re-entry for residents only was allowed in the Thousand Trails, Potrero and Tecate neighborhoods. The communities of San Miguel, Portrero, Barrett Junction, Barett Lake area, Engineer Springs, Dulzura, Deerhorn Valley, Lawson Valley, Jamul, Lyons Valley and homes along Millar Ranch Road are threatened. 1,341 firefighters are assigned under a unified command. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $5.4 million. Harris Fire Information Line (619) 590-3160.

Cal Fire Web Site

Basic Information

Incident Type Wildland Fire
Cause Under Investigation
Date of Origin 10/21/2007 at 0930 hrs.
Location HARRIS RANCH RD & HWY 94, POTRERO
Incident Commander Howard Windsor

Current Situation

Total Personnel 1,341
Size 84,000 acres
Percent Contained 20%
Estimated Containment Date 10/31/2007 at hrs.
Fuels Involved

BRUSH AND GRASS.

Fire Behavior

Active burning on the northern and eastern portions of the fire. Running fire through structures.

Significant Events

The fire spotted across the south-west arm of Barrett Lake. Approximately 500 more homes were ordered evacuated today. Re-entry for residents only was allowed today in the Thousand Trails, Potrero and Tecate neighborhoods.

Outlook

Planned Actions

Continue evacuation warnings of communities that may be impacted, continue search and rescue operations, protect structures and construct direct line where possible. Contingency planning for fire movement to the north and east. Continue damage inspection of burned structures and evaluation of re-entry of civilians to some evacuated areas.

Projected Movement

Fire will continue to move to the east/northeast.

Growth Potential

High

Terrain Difficulty

High

Containment Target

Low confidence. Personnel are exhausted. Some additional resources are trickling in.

Remarks

CDF Team 9 is in unified command with Forest Service, and San Miguel. 1 civilian has been killed and 21 injured by this fire. 4500 people are or have been threatened and evacuated. An estimated 200 homes have been destroyed or damaged. 1500 homes are or have been threatened. Detailed damage assessment is about 55% complete and those numbers are reported in section 24. Initial attack resources are being rested. Crew R&R stations have been established on the fire. Resource requests are critical. NORCAL Team 1, a Type 2 federal incident management team, integrated with CAL FIRE Team 9 today at 1000 hrs.

Weather

Current Wind Conditions 3 mph W
Current Temperature 79 degrees
Current Humidity 13 %

San Diego County Operational Area - Incident Status

Posted: 25 Oct 2007 09:39 PM CDT

San Diego County Operational Area

Sort this table by clicking a column header. Clicking the header a second time sorts the table in the opposite direction. You can view a specific incident by clicking the incident name.

Viewing 1-5 of 5 incidents sorted by UPDATED in DESCENDING order.
Witch Wildland Fire30%197,9903 min. ago
Rice Wildland Fire40%9,0004 min. ago
Poomacha Wildland Fire30%38,5006 min. ago
Harris Wildland Fire20%84,0007 min. ago
Ammo Wildland Fire50%15,00057 min. ago

Southern California Fires at a Glance...

Posted: 25 Oct 2007 09:06 PM CDT

Last modified on October 25, 2007, 06:57 pm
CURRENT STATUS OF INCIDENTS

Southern California Fires at a Glance...

San Diego County
Witch Fire – 197,990 acres – 30% contained
Harris Fire – 81,100 acres – 10% contained
Poomacha Fire – 38,500 acres – 30% contained
Rice Fire – 9,000 acres – 40% contained
Horno/Ammo Fire – 10,000 acres – 40-50% contained
Wilcox Fire – 100 acres – 100% contained
Cajon Fire – 250 acres – 100% contained
McCoy Fire – 300 acres – 100% contained
Coronado Hills Fire – 300 acres – 100% contained

San Bernardino County
Slide Fire – 11,675 acres – 15% contained
Grass Valley Fire - 1,100 acres – 70% contained
Martin Fire – 123 acres – 100% contained
Walker Fire – 160 acres 100% contained

Orange County
Santiago Fire – 26,000 acres – 30% contained

Los Angeles County
Ranch Fire – 56,235 acres – 81% contained
Canyon Fire – 4,565 acres – 100% contained
Magic Fire – 2,824 acres – 100% contained
Buckweed Fire – 38,356 acres – 100% contained
Meadowridge Fire – 40 acres - 100% contained

Santa Barbara County
Sedgewick Fire – 710 acres – 100% contained

Riverside County
Rosa Fire – 411 acres – 100% contained
Roca Fire – 270 acres – 100% contained

Ventura County
Nightsky Fire – 35 acres – 100% contained

Harris Fire
Harris Ranch Road & Hwy 94
San Diego County

This fire has burned 81,100 acres and is 10 percent contained. The fire started October 21 and is burning at Harris Ranch Road and both sides of Highway 94 in Portrero in San Diego County. There have been 25 civilian injuries and one death as well as seven firefighter injuries on this fire. An estimated 200 homes have been destroyed or damaged. 1,500 homes are still threatened.

4500 people have been evacuated and additional evacuations are being ordered. The communities of Chula Vista, San Diego, San Miguel, Portrero, Barrett Junction, Barett Lake area, Engineer Springs, Dulzura, Deerhorn Valley, Lawson Valley, Jamul, Lyons Valley and homes along Millar Ranch Road are threatened. 1,611 firefighters are assigned under unified command. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $3.4 million. Harris Fire Information Line (619) 590-3160.

Evacuation Order in place for communities of Lawson Valley and Carveacre 10/25/07

Harris Fire Fact Sheet 10/25/07 AM

Harris Fire Evacuation Order Lifted for Residents in the Otay Lakes and Thousand Trails Area 10/25/07

Harris Fire Evacuation Warning 10/24/07

Witch Fire
Witch Creek Area East of Ramona
San Diego County

This fire has burned 197,990 acres and is 30 percent contained. Mandatory evacuations are in place for the community of Julian and there is still a threat to Pine Hills, Cuyamaca, Wynola, Santa Ysabel, Alpine, and Harbison Canyon. Fire progression has slowed to the west, southwest, and northwest. Residents are being allowed to return to portions of Poway, Escondido, Rancho Santa Fe, San Diego and Rancho Bernardo. Wildcat Canyon is closed. Highway 67 is closed from Poway to Ramona.

1,061 homes, 30 commercial properties, and 175 outbuildings have been destroyed. 62 homes, 10 commercial properties and 50 outbuildings have been damaged. 1,000 residences, 100 commercial properties, and 300 outbuildings are still threatened.

2,883 firefighters are assigned to this incident under unified command. 22 firefighters have been injured on this fire. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $7 million. Witch Fire Information Line (619) 590-3160.

Poomacha Fire
Highway 76, Pauma Valley
San Diego County

This fire started October 23 as a structure fire on the Lajolla Indian Reservation. It has burned 38,500 acres and is 30 percent contained. 60 homes and 19 outbuildings have been destroyed. 2,000 homes remain threatened.

Evacuations are in progress in Valley Center. The communities of Valley Center, Rincon, Pauma Valley, Hidden Meadows, Deer Springs, Vista and Palomar are threatened. This fire has resulted in 12 firefighter injuries. 1,406 firefighters are currently assigned to this fire under unified command with CAL FIRE and the Cleveland National Forest. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $1.6 million. Poomacha Fire Information Line (760) 751-7600.

Slide Fire
San Bernardino National Forest
Green Valley Lake near Running Springs
San Bernardino County

This fire has burned 11,675 acres at Green Valley Lake near Running Springs in San Bernardino County and is currently 15 percent contained. 200 homes and 3 outbuildings have burned.

10,000 homes continue to be threatened. The entire community of Green Valley was surrounded by the fire and was evacuated. More than 2,000 people are at evacuation centers. Communities still threateded are Green Valley, Running Springs, Live Oak, Fredalba, Smiley Park, Deer Lick, Calvery Chapel Camp, National Children's Forest and Visitors Center, and Arrowbear Lake. All roads into the mountain communities are closed.

1,359 firefighters are currently assigned to this fire under unified command. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $3 million. Slide Fire Information Line (909) 383-5688.

Grass Valley Fire
San Bernardino National Forest
San Bernardino County

This fire has burned 1,100 acres and is 70 percent contained. The fire is northwest of Lake Arrowhead. 100 structures have been lost, and more than 6,000 homes remain threatened. There are mandatory evacuation for areas from Crestline to Snow Valley. Voluntary evacuations are in place for Cedar Pines Park and Valley of Enchantment. Evacuation Center have been established at the National Orange Show in San Bernardino and Victorville Fairgrounds in Victorville.

State Highway 18 is closed from 40th/Waterman to the Big Bear Dam, State Highway 330 is closed at Highland to Hwy 18, State Highway 138 is closed at State Highway 173. Residents may leave via these highways (except 330) but cannot go back up into the Mountains. Access to Big Bear is via Hwy 38 from I-10 in Redlands or from Hwy 18 through the Hi-Desert in Lucerne Valley.

780 firefighters are assigned to this incident. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $2.5 million. Grass Valley Fire Information Line (909) 383-5688.

Santiago Fire
Santiago Canyon Road at Silverado Canyon Road

Orange County

This fire has burned 26,000 acres and is now 30 percent contained. The fire is burning at Santiago Canyon Road and Silverado Canyon Road in Irvine, Orange County. Mandatory evacuations are in place for the canyon areas of Santiago Canyon Road between Silverado Canyon Road and Live Oak Canyon Road, including the Santiago Estates area and Jackson Ranch Road. Areas along Live Oak Canyon Road through the Trabuco Canyon area, including O'Neill Regional Park, to Trabuco Creek Road are also included in this mandatory evacuation. Fourteen homes and eight outbuildings have been destroyed, and 8 residential structures and 12 outbuildings were damaged. The following road closures are in place: Santiago Canyon road south of the 241 Toll Road to Live Oak Canyon Road, all of Live Oak Canyon Road, all of Trabuco Canyon Road, Plano Trabuco road north of Robinson Ranch Road (northbound only). 1,614 people are assigned to this incident and four firefighter injuries have been reported. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $4 million.

The Santiago Fire has been determined to be arson-caused. Santiago Fire Information Line (714) 573-6200.

Horno/Ammo Fire
Camp Pendleton
San Diego County

The Horno/Ammo Fire has burned 17,000 acres since October 23. It is currently 50 percent contained. The Horno Fire has two heads, one north bound tied into Basilone Road and the other south bound tied into Aliso Canyon Road. Firing Operations are being conducted on the northern head from San Onofre to Camp Horno and along Canyon Road to Bailone Road. For information on area relocations, please contact the Horno/Ammo Fire Information Line at (866) 430-2764.

Rice Fire
Rice Canyon
San Diego County

This fire has burned 9,000 acres in Rice Canyon in Northern San Diego County and is 40 percent contained. 206 homes, 2 commercial properties and 40 outbuildings have been destroyed. 200 homes are threatened currently. Evacuation orders are in effect for Fallbrook and outlying areas. Portions of Fallbrook have been reopened to residents. Three firefighters injuries have been reported. 1,073 firefighters are assigned to this fire under unified command. The estimated cost of this fire is $1.9 million. Full containment is expected on October 28. Rice Fire Information Line (619) 590-3160.

Ranch Fire
Angeles National Forest
Los Angeles County

This fire has burned 56,235 acres since October 20 and is 81 percent contained. The fire is burning six miles north of Castaic in Los Angeles County. All evacuations have been lifted. One home and eight outbuildings have been destroyed. 492 personnel are assigned to this incident. One firefighter has been injured. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $7.7 million. Full containment is expected on October 30. Ranch Fire Information Line (626) 821-6700.

CONTAINED

Canyon Fire
Malibu Canyon
Los Angeles County

This fire has burned 4,565 acres and is 100 percent contained. Evacuations have been lifted. 22 structures have been damaged or destroyed. Three injuries have been reported. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $4.2 million. Canyon Fire Information Line (323) 881-2411.

Cajon Fire - FINAL
I-15/Kenwood in Devore
San Bernardino County

This fire started October 22 and has burned 250 acres. The fire is 100 percent contained. Cajon Fire Information line (909) 383-5688.

Rosa Fire - FINAL
Near Temecula
Riverside County

This fire burned 411 acres and is 100 percent contained. Two outbuildings were destroyed by this fire. Evacuations have been lifted and residents may return to their homes. All roads are open. Rosa Fire Information Line (951) 940-6985.

Sedgewick Fire - FINAL
Brinkerhoff Rd/Sedgewick Ranch/ Figueroa Mountain
Santa Barbara County

This fire, caused by arching power lines, burned 710 acres and is now 100 percent contained. 30 personnel are assigned to this fire. Sedgewick Fire Information Line (805) 681-5546.

Coronado Hills Fire - FINAL
South of Cal State San Marcos
San Diego County


This fire started October 22 and burned 250 acres south of Cal State San Marcos in San Diego County. Two outbuildings were destroyed in Discovery Hills and San Marcos. It is now 100 percent contained. Coronado Hills Fire Line (619) 590-3160.

Roca Fire - FINAL
East of Temecula
Riverside County

The Roca Fire burned 270 acres since October 21 and is 100 percent contained. All evacuation orders have been lifted.One home was destroyed and one injury was reported. Roca Fire Information Line (951) 940-6985.

Walker Fire
Northwest of Lake Arrowhead
San Bernardino County

This fire burned 160 acres northwest of Lake Arrowhead in San Bernardino County and is now 100 percent contained. The evacuation center is now closed. Four engines remain on scene. Walker Fire Information line (909) 383-5688.

McCoy Fire - FINAL
Cleveland National Forest
San Diego County

This fire burned 300 acres and is 100 percent contained. The fire started October 21 in the Boulder Creek/Eagle Peak area of San Diego County. One residence and one outbuilding were destroyed. McCoy Fire Information Line (619) 590-3160.

Wilcox Fire - FINAL
Camp Pendleton
San Diego County

This 100 acre fire on Camp Pendleton is now 100% contained. Wilcox Fire Information Line (866) 430-2764.

Meadowridge Fire
Santa Clarita - 14 Freeway, San Fernando
Los Angeles County

This 40 acre fire began at 12:30 October 23 and is now 100 percent contained. No communities are currently threatened. 182 firefighters are assigned to this fire under Los Angeles County command. Meadowridge Fire Information Line (323) 881-2411.

Buckweed Fire
Mint Canyon Road at Sierra Hwy
Los Angeles County

This fire burned 38,356 acres and is 100 percent contained. The fire started October 21 and is burning at Mint Canyon Road and Sierra Highway in Los Angeles County toward Magic Mountain. 30 structures were damaged and 63 structures have been destroyed. Three civilians and one firefighter were injured. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $7.4 million. Buckweed Fire Information Line (323) 881-2411.

Magic Fire - FINAL
Old Cross Road at Magic Mountain Parkway
Los Angeles County

The Magic Fire has burned 2,824 acres since October 22 and is now 100 percent contained. Bouquet Canyon Road from Spunky Canyon to Shadow is closed. Magic Fire Information Line (323) 881-2411.

Martin Fire - FINAL
Martin Ranch Road at Meyers Road
San Bernardino County

This fire in the San Bernardino National Forest began at 9 a.m. October 23 and has burned 123 acres. It is 100 percent contained. 77 firefighters are assigned to this incident under unified command and one firefighter injury has been reported. One home has been damaged. No structures are threatened at this time. All evacuation notices have been lifted.

Nightsky Fire - FINAL
2 miles south of Moorpark
Ventura County

This fire is in Ventura County and began at 10:35 a.m. October 21 and burned 35 acres. It is 100 percent contained.

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$50,000 Reward toward Arrest and Conviction of Arsonist

Posted: 25 Oct 2007 04:53 PM CDT

10/23/2007 GAAS:857:07

CDF - Cal Fire Arson hotline
1-800-468-4408


Gov. Schwarzenegger Announces $50,000 Reward toward Arrest and Conviction of Arsonist

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today announced a $50,000 reward for information leading toward the arrest and conviction in a California court of the person or persons responsible for setting the Santiago Fire. Below is the full text of the Governor's proclamation.

PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, there are more than 15 fires burning in southern California; and

WHEREAS, the fires have burned hundreds of thousands of acres, including thousands of homes, businesses and structures; and

WHEREAS, the fires have forced 321,500 people to evacuate; and

WHEREAS, in response to the fires, I issued a proclamation of emergency for seven counties, including Orange County, and the President of the United States declared a major disaster in those counties; and

WHEREAS, one of the fires in southern California is the Santiago Fire in Orange County, which has burned more than 20,000 acres, causing more than 40,000 people to evacuate; and

WHEREAS, state and local officials have determined that the cause of the Santiago fire is most likely arson; and

WHEREAS, the Governor is authorized by Penal Code section 1547(a) to offer rewards up to $50,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of any person who commits arson; and

WHEREAS, Orange County Sheriff Michael S. Carona has asked that a state reward be offered to encourage individuals with information about this crime to contact law enforcement; and

WHEREAS, rewards often encourage public cooperation essential to apprehend those who have committed serious offenses; and

WHEREAS, the reward will be paid in accordance with Penal Code section 1547.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER, Governor of the State of California, do hereby offer, effective immediately, a reward in the amount of $50,000 for new information, voluntarily given hereafter, leading to the arrest and conviction in a California court of the person or persons responsible for setting the Santiago Fire.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed at Sacramento, California this 24th day of October 2007.

ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER

Governor, State of California

Southern California Fires at a Glance...

Posted: 25 Oct 2007 04:43 PM CDT

Last modified on October 25, 2007, 02:12 pm
CURRENT STATUS OF INCIDENTS

Southern California Fires at a Glance...

San Diego County
Witch Fire197,990 acres – 20% contained
Harris Fire – 81,100 acres – 10% contained
Poomacha Fire – 35,000 acres – 20% contained
Rice Fire – 9,000 acres – 30% contained
Horno/Ammo Fire – 10,000 acres – 40-50% contained
Wilcox Fire – 100 acres – 100% contained
Cajon Fire – 250 acres – 100% contained
McCoy Fire – 300 acres – 100% contained
Coronado Hills Fire – 300 acres – 100% contained

San Bernardino County
Slide Fire – 11,600 acres – 10% contained
Grass Valley Fire - 1,100 acres – 40% contained
Martin Fire – 123 acres – 100% contained
Walker Fire – 160 acres 100% contained

Orange County
Santiago Fire – 23,00 acres – 30% contained

Los Angeles County
Ranch Fire – 55,756 acres – 70% contained
Canyon Fire – 4,500 acres – 85% contained
Magic Fire – 2,824 acres – 100% contained
Buckweed Fire – 38,356 acres – 100% contained
Meadowridge Fire – 40 acres - 100% contained

Santa Barbara County
Sedgewick Fire – 710 acres – 100% contained

Riverside County
Rosa Fire – 411 acres – 100% contained
Roca Fire – 270 acres – 100% contained

Ventura County
Nightsky Fire – 35 acres – 100% contained

Harris Fire
Harris Ranch Road & Hwy 94
San Diego County

This fire has burned 81,100 acres and is 10 percent contained. The fire started October 21 and is burning at Harris Ranch Road and both sides of Highway 94 in Portrero in San Diego County. There have been 25 civilian injuries and one death as well as seven firefighter injuries on this fire. An estimated 200 homes have been destroyed or damaged. 1,500 homes are still threatened.

4500 people have been evacuated and additional evacuations are being ordered. The communities of Chula Vista, San Diego, San Miguel, Portrero, Barrett Junction, Barett Lake area, Engineer Springs, Dulzura, Deerhorn Valley, Lawson Valley, Jamul, Lyons Valley and homes along Millar Ranch Road are threatened. 1,611 firefighters are assigned under unified command. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $3.4 million. Harris Fire Information Line (619) 590-3160.

Evacuation Order Downgraded for Communities of Potrero and Tecate 10/25/07

Harris Fire Fact Sheet 10/25/07 AM

Harris Fire Evacuation Order Lifted for Residents in the Otay Lakes and Thousand Trails Area 10/25/07

Harris Fire Evacuation Warning 10/24/07

Witch Fire
Witch Creek Area East of Ramona
San Diego County

This fire has burned 197,990 acres and is 20 percent contained. Mandatory evacuations are in place for the community of Julian and there is still a threat to Pine Hills, Cuyamaca, Wynola, Santa Ysabel, Alpine, and Harbison Canyon. Fire progression has slowed to the west, southwest, and northwest. Residents are being allowed to return to portions of the communities of Poway, Escondido, Rancho Santa Fe, San Diego and Rancho Bernardo. Wildcat Canyon is closed. Highway 67 is closed from Poway to Ramona.

645 homes, 30 commercial properties, and 50 outbuildings have been destroyed. 250 homes, 10 commercial properties and 50 outbuildings have been damaged. 5,000 residences, 1,500 commercial properties, and 300 outbuildings are currently threatened. 22 firefighters have been injured on this fire. 2,619 firefighters are assigned to this incident under unified command. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $5.3 million. Witch Fire Information Line (619) 590-3160.

Poomacha Fire
Highway 76, Pauma Valley
San Diego County

This fire started October 23 as a structure fire on the Lajolla Indian Reservation. It has burned 35,000 acres and is 20 percent contained. 50 homes have been destroyed and 2,000 homes are threatened currently.

Evacuations are in progress in Valley Center. The communities of Valley Center, Rincon, Pauma Valley, Hidden Meadows, Deer Springs, Vista and Palomar are threatened. This fire has resulted in 12 firefighter injuries. 859 firefighters are currently assigned to this fire under unified command with CAL FIRE and the Cleveland National Forest. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $950,000. Poomacha Fire Information Line (760) 751-7600.

Slide Fire
San Bernardino National Forest
Green Valley Lake near Running Springs
San Bernardino County


This fire has burned 11,600 acres at Green Valley Lake near Running Springs in San Bernardino County and is currently 10 percent contained. 200 homes and 3 outbuildings have burned.

10,000 homes continue to be threatened. The entire community of Green Valley was surrounded by the fire and was evacuated. More than 2,000 people are at evacuation centers. Mandatory evacuations are also in place for Running Springs, Fredalba, Green Valley Lake, and Arrow Bear. The communities of Live Oak, Smiley Park, Running Spring, Cavalry Chapel Camp, National Children's Forest and Visitors Center, Arrowbear Lake, Snow Valley and Nordic Rim Ski Areas and Deer Lick are all threatened. All roads into the mountain communities are closed.

1,359 firefighters currently are assigned to this fire under unified command. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $2.5 million. Slide Fire Information Line (909) 383-5688.

Grass Valley Fire
San Bernardino National Forest
San Bernardino County

This fire has burned 1,100 acres and is 40 percent contained. The fire is northwest of Lake Arrowhead. 100 structures have been lost, and more than 6,000 homes remain threatened. There are mandatory evacuation for areas from Crestline to Snow Valley. Voluntary evacuations are in place for Cedar Pines Park and Valley of Enchantment. Evacuation Center have been established at the National Orange Show in San Bernardino and Victorville Fairgrounds in Victorville.

State Highway 18 is closed from 40th/Waterman to the Big Bear Dam, State Highway 330 is closed at Highland to Hwy 18, State Highway 138 is closed at State Highway 173. Residents may leave via these highways (except 330) but cannot go back up into the Mountains. Access to Big Bear is via Hwy 38 from I-10 in Redlands or from Hwy 18 through the Hi-Desert in Lucerne Valley.

1,020 firefighters are assigned to this incident. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $2 million. Grass Valley Fire Information Line (909) 383-5688.

Santiago Fire
Santiago Canyon Road at Silverado Canyon Road

Orange County

This fire has burned 23,000 acres and is now 30 percent contained. The fire is burning at Santiago Canyon Road and Silverado Canyon Road in Irvine, Orange County. 3,000 homes are threatened in the communities of Silverado, Modjeska, Trabuco, Live Oak, Williams, Holy Jim, and Cleveland National Forrest. Fourteen homes and eight outbuildings have been destroyed. Highway 241 is closed from Santiago Canyon to Highway 133. Portola Parkway and portions of Jamboree Road in Irvine are closed. 1,060 people are assigned to this incident and four firefighter injuries have been reported. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $2.75 million.

The Santiago Fire has been determined to be arson-caused. Santiago Fire Information Line (714) 573-6200.

Horno/Ammo Fire
Camp Pendleton
San Diego County

The Horno/Ammo Fire has burned 17,000 acres since October 23. It is currently 40-50 percent contained. The Horno Fire has two heads, one north bound tied into Basilone Road and the other south bound tied into Aliso Canyon Road. Firing Operations are being conducted on the northern head from San Onofre to Camp Horno and along Canyon Road to Bailone Road. For information on area relocations, please contact the Horno/Ammo Fire Information Line at (866) 430-2764.

Rice Fire
Rice Canyon
San Diego County

This fire has burned 9,000 acres in Rice Canyon in Northern San Diego County and is 30 percent contained. 206 homes, 2 commercial properties and 40 outbuildings have been destroyed. 400 homes are threatened currently. Evacuation orders are in effect for Fallbrook and outlying areas affecting 35,000 residents. One firefighter injury has been reported. Fire spread has slowed due to decreased winds, however, the fire has potential for increased growth. 1,095 firefighters are assigned to this fire under unified command. The estimated cost of this fire is $1.2 million. Rice Fire Information Line (619) 590-3160.

Ranch Fire
Angeles National Forest
Los Angeles County

This fire has burned 55,756 acres since October 20 and is 70 percent contained. The fire is burning six miles north of Castaic in Los Angeles County. All evacuations have been lifted. One home and eight outbuildings have been destroyed. 905 personnel are assigned to this incident and one firefighter has been injured. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $7 million. Ranch Fire Information Line (626) 821-6700.

Canyon Fire
Malibu Canyon
Los Angeles County

This fire has burned 4,200 acres and is 85 percent contained. Evacuations have been lifted. 22 structures have been damaged or destroyed. Three injuries have been reported. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $4.2 million. Canyon Fire Information Line (323) 881-2411.

CONTAINED

Cajon Fire
I-15/Kenwood in Devore
San Bernardino County

This fire started October 22 and has burned 250 acres. The fire is 100 percent contained. Cajon Fire Information line (909) 383-5688.

Rosa Fire
Near Temecula
Riverside County

This fire burned 411 acres and is 100 percent contained. Two outbuildings were destroyed by this fire. Evacuations have been lifted and residents may return to their homes. All roads are open. 223 firefighters are assigned to this incident. The cause of this fire is arson. Rosa Fire Information Line (951) 940-6985.

Sedgewick Fire - FINAL
Brinkerhoff Rd/Sedgewick Ranch/ Figueroa Mountain
Santa Barbara County

This fire, caused by arching power lines, burned 710 acres and is now 100 percent contained. 30 personnel are assigned to this fire. Sedgewick Fire Information Line (805) 681-5546.

Coronado Hills Fire - FINAL
South of Cal State San Marcos
San Diego County


This fire started October 22 and burned 250 acres south of Cal State San Marcos in San Diego County. Two outbuildings were destroyed in Discovery Hills and San Marcos. It is now 100 percent contained. Coronado Hills Fire Line (619) 590-3160.

Roca Fire
East of Temecula
Riverside County

The Roca Fire burned 270 acres since October 21 and is 100 percent contained. All evacuation orders have been lifted.One home was destroyed and one injury was reported. Roca Fire Information Line (951) 940-6985.

Walker Fire
Northwest of Lake Arrowhead
San Bernardino County

This fire burned 160 acres northwest of Lake Arrowhead in San Bernardino County and is now 100 percent contained. The evacuation center is now closed. Four engines remain on scene. Walker Fire Information line (909) 383-5688.

McCoy Fire
Cleveland National Forest
San Diego County

This fire burned 300 acres and is 100 percent contained. The fire started October 21 in the Boulder Creek/Eagle Peak area of San Diego County. One residence and one outbuilding were destroyed. McCoy Fire Information Line (619) 590-3160.

Wilcox Fire
Camp Pendleton
San Diego County

This 100 acre fire on Camp Pendleton is now 100% contained. Wilcox Fire Information Line (866) 430-2764.

Meadowridge Fire
Santa Clarita - 14 Freeway, San Fernando
Los Angeles County

This 40 acre fire began at 12:30 October 23 and is now 100 percent contained. No communities are currently threatened. 182 firefighters are assigned to this fire under Los Angeles County command. Meadowridge Fire Information Line (323) 881-2411.

Buckweed Fire
Mint Canyon Road at Sierra Hwy
Los Angeles County

This fire burned 38,356 acres and is 100 percent contained. The fire started October 21 and is burning at Mint Canyon Road and Sierra Highway in Los Angeles County toward Magic Mountain. Residents may return to their homees. Roads are open except for Bouquet Canyon at Vasquez and Vasquez at Sierra due to bridge damage. 21 homes and 22 outbuildings were destroyed and 15 homes were damaged. Three civilians and one firefighter were injured. 874 firefighters are assigned to this incident. The estimated cost of this fire to date is $5.8 million. Buckweed Fire Information Line (323) 881-2411.

Magic Fire - FINAL
Old Cross Road at Magic Mountain Parkway
Los Angeles County

The Magic Fire has burned 2,824 acres since October 22 and is now 100 percent contained. 5 Los Angeles County firefighters are assigned to this fire. Magic Fire Information Line (323) 881-2411.

Martin Fire
Martin Ranch Road at Meyers Road
San Bernardino County

This fire in the San Bernardino National Forest began at 9 a.m. October 23 and has burned 123 acres. It is 100 percent contained. 77 firefighters are assigned to this incident under unified command and one firefighter injury has been reported. One home has been damaged. No structures are threatened at this time. All evacuation notices have been lifted.

Nightsky Fire - FINAL
2 miles south of Moorpark
Ventura County

This fire is in Ventura County and began at 10:35 a.m. October 21 and burned 35 acres. It is 100 percent contained.

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Temporary housing is needed for animals

Posted: 25 Oct 2007 04:36 PM CDT

During wildfires, temporary housing is often needed for animals of those people forced to evacuate. If you would like to help out with animal rescue efforts or emergency housing that is needed because of the California wildfires, here are a few places you can contact. Please remember, they could also use cash donations to help with the rescue efforts. Thank-you!
On the human front, the Red Cross is always the first out there on the scene and the first to help You can donate to the

Red Cross Los Angeles at:
http://www.redcrossla.org

or the Red Cross San Diego at: http://www.sdarc.org

Chaplain Nancy at AnimalChaplains.com

San Diego Humane Society
http://www.sdhumane.org

SPCA - Los Angeles
http://www.spcala.com

New Leash on Life (Castaic area)
http://www.newleash.org

CNN.com

News: Breaking News -- MercuryNews.com

AP Top U.S. News At 8:45 p.m.